Universal Music Said in Talks With Def Jam Chairman

Universal Music Group, working to keep Island Def Jam unit Chairman Antonio “L.A.” Reid, has offered to create a jointly owned business with the executive, three people with knowledge of the situation said.

Reid may be able to take several artists from among those he has signed, who include teen pop star Justin Bieber, Rihanna and Usher, the people said. Universal, owned by Vivendi SA, may name a Def Jam replacement. Reid hasn’t agreed to the plan, said the people, who sought anonymity because the talks are private.